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NFL Draft 2018: Colts can build line around Quenton Nelson

By Andrew Miller

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Notre Dame offensive lineman Quenton Nelson speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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A foundation for the Indianapolis Colts needed to be formed around the offensive line. They did just that with Notre Dame’s Quenton Nelson.

With the sixth overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts picked the player that made the most sense for the situation that the franchise needs now. A few injuries to franchise quarterback Andrew Luck have cost the Colts their chance at taking control of the AFC South, giving way to the Jacksonville Jaguars run to the AFC Championship Game this past season.

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish had quite the group of offensive line prospects for this class. Of the two projected first round picks for the Irish for the 2018 NFL Draft, offensive guard Quenton Nelson led the way for Notre Dame’s line in 2017 as one of the nation’s best.

This pick makes a ton of sense for the Colts, who can start putting together a quality offensive line around Nelson and former Alabama Crimson Tide center Ryan Kelly. Luck is starting to get a line in front of him to possibly better his chances to staying healthy, in what looks like a dwindling career at a young age.

During the 2017 campaign, Notre Dame was built around a solid ground game with star running back Josh Adams and quarterback Brandon Wimbush. They combined for more than 20 rushing touchdowns, behind lineman like Nelson and offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey.

Since McGlinchey is yet to be taken off the board, some other team still gets the opportunity to get a boost at the tackle position. However, Nelson was the clear better prospect among both of the lineman. He’s got a motor that is non-stop and keeps him going in both the run and pass game.

Next: Complete 7-round 2018 NFL Mock Draft

Indy made a no-brainer selection with the sixth pick in the first round. While it may not make them immediate contenders in their division, they take a step in the proper direction with it. Nelson also gets to stay local, in the same state in which he played his college ball in. Big win for the Colts and Notre Dame football with this top selection in the first round.

Grade: A-

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